In the Garden

Our actions around the home and in the garden can have a dramatic effect on our environment. The best way to keep toxic chemicals from storm-drains, creeks, lagoons and oceans is not to release them in the first place.

Listed are a few tips from the City of Encinitas
that will help you with insect and weed control in your garden.

1. The most effective pest control starts with prevention: building
healthy soil, selecting appropriate plants, watering effectively,
and using mulch. An ounce of prevention is better than a pound
of pesticide.
2. If you still have some pest problems, supplement with simple
physical controls such as a strong spray of water, barriers, traps,
and handpicking.
3. Encourage biological controls by attracting beneficial insects. Make
your yard a haven for beneficial insects by taking simple steps
to provide them with food, water and shelter. Protect beneficial
insects by avoiding broad-spectrum pesticides. You can even buy
beneficial insects.
4. Use pesticides only as a last resort and only use a pesticide that
is specifically designed to control your pest. The insect should be
listed on the label. Over 90% of the insects on your lawn and
garden are not harmful.
5. If you do use pesticides, read the labels! Use only as directed. In
their zeal to control the problem, many gardeners use pesticides
at a rate over 20 times that of farmers.

Fertilizing
Improve the health of your soil by adding compost and using
organic mulches. You'll reduce your need for fertilizers and your
plants will be healthier.
Use fertilizers sparingly.
Consider organic fertilizers, they release nutrients slowly.
Leave grass clippings on your lawn as a natural fertilizer.

Watering
Avoid over-watering. Don't let water run out into the street.
Use efficient irrigation methods such as soaker hoses and micro-sprinklers.
If you have a spray head sprinkler system, consider adjusting your
water method to a cycle and soak. Instead of watering for 15
minutes straight, breakup the session into 5 minute intervals
allowing water to soak in before the next application.

Yard Waste
Sweep up yard clippings from your sidewalks and gutters.
Utilize your yard waste collection program, or better yet, start a compost pile.